Talia Joy Castellano, 13, Dead — Beauty Guru Dies Of Cancer

So sad. The 13-year-old CoverGirl and YouTube beauty guru tragically died after her 7-year battle with cancer on July 16. She gained fame after appearing on ‘Ellen,’ and was admired for her love of all things beauty, and her inspirational outlook on life.

Talia Joy Castellano, 13, had been struggling with a form of nerve cancer called neuroblastoma for more than seven years before she passed away on the morning of July 16. The YouTube star continued to make videos for her fans throughout her battle, and inspired her adoring fans through her Instagram and Twitter accounts.

Talia Joy Castellano Dies On July 16

At the time of hear early and tragic death, Talia was surrounded by friends and family. The young YouTuber was made most famous by appearing on Ellen Degeneres‘ talk show The Ellen Degeneres Show, and then being made an honorary CoverGirl by Ellen. In one of her videos, Talia explained,

Having cancer has been a gift yet a horrible, horrible, terrifying thing. But I’ve gotten so many benefits from it…Having a Youtube channel and having to inspire people, and having people look up to me and explaining to you guys how I love and adore makeup, using it as my wig and having so much self-confidence to go out to the grocery store without a wig… it’s just amazing.

Ellen, who had propelled Talia to fame, took to Twitter to express her grief at such a terrible loss. Ellen tweeted:

This year I met a very special girl, and today we lost her. Sending my heart to Talia’s family. I’m so sad.

CoverGirl also released a statement honoring the brave girl. Esi Eggleston Bracey, VP and GM of CoverGirl Cosmetics, tells HollywoodLife.com in a statement:

We are honored to have known Talia and grateful for all the ways she showed us what true beauty means. She inspired millions with her strength, personality and talent. Talia has touched our COVERGIRL family forever, and we’re thankful to have been a part of her life. Our hearts go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.

Talia Joy’s Untimely Death At 13

Talia passed away after coming down with a fever, and she needed a platelet transfusion. The past six months have been especially difficult for her and her family, and they spent most of their time in the hospital. Fans have been following her progress through the Facebook page Angels for Talia, which is run by her family. After her tragic death, her family posted this statement on the page:

It is with a heavy heart that we share with all of you that Talia has earned her wings at 11:22am. Please lift her beautiful soul, her beautiful light to heaven and please send your love and prayers to her family during this most difficult time. God speed little one, may you be free from pain and suffering, may your soul feel the light and love that you brought to so many of us on this Earth during the short time you were her with us. We will miss you more than you will ever know baby girl.

So tragic. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Talia’s friends, family, and many adoring fans.